Airmen from the 621st Contingency Response Wing at JB McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., are in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, for the second time this year to help their Honduran counterparts build their skills. “I’m glad we have this opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences. Working together is important because we have a lot to offer each other,” said SMSgt. Jason Hood, senior enlisted manager with the 571st Mobility Support Advisory Squadron, in the wing’s Aug. 15 release. He added, “Just because our Air Force does something one way does not mean that is the only way to do things.” The airmen from both nations are discussing topics like air base defense, aircrew survival, aircraft maintenance, communications, fuels, and medical and supply management, states the release. “Building capacity with our partners must be a continuing effort. We all have to be in this for the long haul,” said Maj. Lorena Tejada, commander of this exchange mission. The visit runs through mid September, according to the release. (Tegucigalpa report by SSgt. James Stewart)
The 301st Fighter Wing in Fort Worth, Texas, became the first standalone Reserve unit in the Air Force to get its own F-35s, welcoming the first fighter Nov. 5.